Samsung · Reviewed by 9to5Google · Published 2026-07-22
Based on a review by 9to5Google (accessed 2026-07-22).
Based on this review alone: buy it if you care about 12% thinner than previous version — just accept limited color options (only silver or gray, no matte black).
The reviewer concludes that both the Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 are "nice improvements" and "solid wearables" that continue Samsung's strong presence in the Wear OS market. They suggest these are a "better buy than last year" and offer an element of rugged quality over competitors like the Pixel Watch.
This review provides an early look at the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, focusing on design changes, battery improvements, display brightness, and new fitness features. The reviewer offers initial impressions on both wearables, highlighting the Ultra 2's advancements while noting the Watch 9's similarity to its predecessor. It also discusses software integration like Gemini and new wearable-specific features.
A significant upgrade over its predecessor, Samsung's Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 establishes itself as a strong contender in the rugged smartwatch market. It boasts an impressive 5,000 nits peak brightness display, making it incredibly visible in any lighting, and packs a massive 800 mAh battery which hints at multi-day usage, though exact longevity still needs testing. However, the bio-active sensor lacks upgrades, and the limited color options might disappoint some users who prefer more aesthetic choices. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, diver, or someone who needs a highly durable smartwatch with advanced tracking features, this device is an excellent choice. But if you prioritize cutting-edge health tracking sensor improvements, you might want to consider other options.
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The Galaxy Watch 9 introduces an 'air pocket strap' which is a lighter design with a channel cut out. The reviewer notes it feels more pliable and comfortable due to weight reduction, but expresses concern it might act as a 'sweat channel' during workouts.
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The 40 mm Galaxy Watch 9 now has a 390 mAh battery, an almost 20% increase, while the 44 mm version has 445 mAh, a mere 10 mAh increase. This allows for room for a larger battery in both models.
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Samsung states that the Watch Ultra 2 is 12% thinner than its previous version. Despite this reduction, it still manages to pack a large battery.
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The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 packs an 800 mA battery, which the reviewer considers 'massive' for a device of its size and a rugged wearable. The reviewer speculates on a potential multi-day battery life (3-6 days) but notes further testing is needed.
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The Watch Ultra 2 reaches a peak brightness of 5,000 nits. The reviewer tested it in a dim environment and found it 'absolutely eye-searing' at maximum, concluding there will be no issues checking anything on the watch in any lighting scenario.
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The Watch 9's display is rated at around 3,000 nits by Samsung. The reviewer believes this should be sufficient for the average owner in most cases, though less bright than the Ultra 2.
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Thanks to an improved IP69K rating and EN13319 diving certification, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 offers impressive underwater capabilities. It can detect submersion and engage a water lock to prevent ingress.
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Later in the year, Mares, a diving equipment manufacturer, will bring additional diving metrics like descent speed and decompression guidance directly to the Watch Ultra 2 via an application. This is noted as a first for Wear OS watches.
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The Watch Ultra 2 features enhanced trail running tracking with real-time route guidance using GPX files that can be uploaded to the device. This is considered a significant feature for rugged wearables aimed at fitness enthusiasts.
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The hydration guidance function on the Watch Ultra 2 uses AI and metrics from the wearable to help users stay hydrated, which the reviewer finds much better than generic water drinking reminders and a good use of Gemini's power.
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'Raise to Talk' for Gemini is coming to both the Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2. This feature differentiates between raising the wrist to check time versus raising it to the mouth to talk to Gemini.
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The Watch Ultra 2's design changes make it look more in keeping with the Galaxy Watch aesthetic, with a flatter profile and cleaner aesthetic. It appears more seamlessly integrated as 'one piece of metal' rather than having a 'stuck on ugly' bezel.
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The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is only available in silver or gray, lacking a matte black option akin to the Apple Watch Ultra, which the reviewer finds surprising. This simplification of colors might be a drawback for some users.
The Galaxy Watch 9 is largely similar to its predecessor in design, but includes a chipset bump and a new 'air pocket strap' for improved comfort. Both the 40mm and 44mm models see an increase in battery capacity, with the 40mm model getting an almost 20% boost to 390 mAh. It also shares new software features like 'Raise to Talk' for Gemini.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 reaches a peak brightness of 5,000 nits. The reviewer tested it and found it to be 'eye-searing' at maximum, concluding that users will have no issues seeing the display in any lighting scenario. This vastly improved brightness is a major highlight.
The Watch Ultra 2 introduces significant fitness upgrades, including an improved IP69K rating and EN13319 diving certification, enabling advanced underwater features. It will also integrate with a Mares app for detailed diving metrics. Additionally, it offers enhanced trail running tracking with real-time route guidance using GPX files and AI-powered hydration guidance that uses more personal metrics.
Despite being 12% thinner, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 manages to pack an 800 mAh battery, which the reviewer describes as 'massive' for its size. While specific multi-day battery life figures are pending full testing, the reviewer speculates it could potentially last anywhere from three to six days for some users, representing a significant improvement.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 features a design that is 12% thinner than its predecessor. It boasts a flatter profile and cleaner aesthetic, appearing more integrated and like a single piece of metal. However, it is only available in silver or gray, and the reviewer notes the absence of a matte black option.
75/100 source quality
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is largely similar to last year's model, with minor quality-of-life changes, a chipset bump, and a new 'air pocket' strap designed for comfort. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, however, features a more significant design update, making it 12% thinner with a larger 800 mAh battery. Its display boasts an impressive 5,000 nits peak brightness, and it includes advanced fitness capabilities like IP69K rating, EN13319 diving certification, and enhanced trail running. Both watches will also gain 'Raise to Talk' functionality for Gemini integration.
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